FUR-EVER FRIENDS AT WEST DOGSBURY
DOG lovers of Manchester are in for an Easter Sunday treat, all thanks to West Didsbury & Chorlton FC.
The South Manchester club are putting on their now infamous Non-League Dog Day to coincide with their women’s team facing off against local rivals Salford City Lionesses at Brookburn Road (ko 2pm).
Today marks the third time the forward-looking club have held the event, following a three-year, Covid hiatus.
Over 50 pooches were in attendance for the 2019 NonLeague Dog Day and the club are hoping to build on its popularity.
“It’s great to have it back, it’s always a brilliant day,” said West Didsbury official Gray Ellwood. “We have developed a real reputation on social media as being a dog friendly club and it is something that we really embrace.
“It helps attract a different demographic of fans and is all part of the football for all mantra that we are so passionate about.
“On a normal matchday we usually do a competition for the best turned out dog at half-time and give out free pet treats, but Non-League Dog Day goes further.
“We have the ribbons and dog treats at the ready and are going to be doing a lot on social media throughout the day.”
While the club hopes to get as many four-legged friends through the turnstiles as possible, the main objective of the day is to increase support and awareness for their women’s team, who currently compete in the top tier of the North-West Women’s Regional League.
The men’s team – who have already achieved promotion to Step 5 in the North West Counties League this season – have witnessed an explosion in attendances over the past nine months, and the club want to grow attendances for their women’s team as well.
“The women’s team are at the heart of the club and this event will give people a chance to see what they are all about,” Ellwood added.